The 7 Healthy Self-care Practices You Didn’t Know You Needed

Are the practices of self-care one of your top priorities? Nowadays, self-care is such a huge topic. But I’ve noticed that when it comes to talking about it, many think of skincare only. While skincare is a part of it, there’s many more to this huge topic we call self-care.

We are surrounded by a sea of stressful situations every day. Long workdays, a stack of schoolwork, bills, and more all lead to an unhealthy relationship with ourselves. I tend to wonder why I don’t do more of it.

But I can see how it can get away from me when life gets tough. And I’m sure you feel that too. Which is why the importance of practicing it is so beneficial to our daily lives.

Why are the practices of self-care so important

There are a few important things that we tend to ignore in our lives that are beneficial to our well-being. And practicing self-care is one of them. Too often we get caught up in life’s problems and stresses and we end up suffering the consequences.

When you don’t practice self-care, it could lead to:

• Irritation or anger towards others
• Elevated stress levels
• Physical illnesses
• Inability to fully function in daily activities
• Depression or other mental health issues

However, when you have a healthy and effective self-care routine it can assist you in:

• Lowering your stress levels
• Reduce your anxiety and depression
• Empower and motivate you
• Increase your energy to doing more
• Reduce the risk of burnout
• Increase your mood

Just as with your physical health, practicing self-care promotes good health and better ways to cope with illnesses. You’ll start to see that the little things that used to bother you, will start to diminish. And the way you handle life’s situations becomes less stressful.

What are the 7 self-care practices

As much of a hot topic as it may be, it is important to practice and to practice more than just one. There is a list of different self-care practices that can help you improve your life. Here are just a few.

Emotional self-care practice

Emotional self-care helps you find healthy coping skills to deal with your emotions such as anger, or sadness. When practiced, you begin to understand and fully process your emotions as they come. Also, you’re able to express them in a healthier manner.

Some practices of emotional self-care would be:

• Journaling and practicing daily affirmations
• Listening to music
• Meditating
• Practicing gratitude
• Being creative or doing a creative activity

Spiritual self-care

Spiritual self-care focuses on helping you develop a deeper connection with your inner self. Align you with the universe in a spiritual way and help center you around a higher being. It doesn’t necessarily have to be about religion but about your connection with something higher, whatever that may be for you.

Some practices of spiritual self-care would be:

• Practicing yoga
• Prayer
• Embracing a higher being
• Taking a walk or sitting outside and taking in nature

Physical self-care practice

It’s the way you maintain and improve your physical health daily. Now physical self-care doesn’t always mean exercising and going to the gym. It can be hygiene as well. Taking care of yourself helps to energize your body and mind while giving you a better feeling about yourself.

Some practices of physical self-care would be:

• Washing and styling your hair
• Brushing your teeth
• Exercise and eat healthy
• Drinking water daily
• Perform a skincare routine

Financial self-care practice

I’m sure that you didn’t think financial self-care was a thing. But the feeling of added debt can be a stressor on your mental well-being. Financial self-care can help you better manage both your debts and savings. It gives you a better relationship with your situation.

Some practices of financial self-care would be:

• Stick to a budget and spend wisely
• Track your expenses and savings
• Keep up with the latest financial tips and ways to manage your money
• Investing in your future

Environmental self-care

Even outside sources can contribute to our self-care. Such things as a clean room or house or having a personal space can improve your daily mood and well-being, giving you the energy and motivation to perform activities.

Some practices of environmental self-care would be:

• A clean house
• Making a private space for yourself
• Start a garden or outdoor craft
• Create a personal space at home and work

Mental self-care practice

Mental self-care involves doing activities that stimulate your mind. Such things as practicing self-acceptance, puzzles, or learning something interesting can help you maintain a healthy mindset.

Some practices of mental self-care would be:

• Learn a new skill, language, or hobby
• Listen to a podcast or audible books
• Participate in an interest class or event
• Spend time educating yourself on a random topic

Social self-care practice

Since we are sociable beings, practicing social self-care is essential. Building close connections with others helps to improve your well-being. Social self-care, when practiced, means putting in the time and energy needed to gain healthy relationships.

Some practices of social self-care would be:

• Having a night out with friends
• Gathering with loved ones
• Make time for a call to check in on your spouse
• Attend social events and activities

Conclusion

Practicing self-care was meant to improve our well-being. When you join a combination of these seven and more, you start to feel well-balanced. And what may seem too difficult to accomplish, you’ll learn will be second nature after some time.

What self-care practices do you enjoy? Share your responses in the comments below.

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Until next time, this is Tammy saying keep strong, keep positive. And NOTHING’s Impossible!!!